An increasing number of people seek peer support through online forums to connect with others who can relate to what they are experiencing. Access to this kind of support can be particularly important during this time of year.
Cancer Council Online Community is a forum designed to complement existing information and support services, connecting people with each other in real time, regardless of when they seek information. What is most appealing for people is accessibility – it’s available 24/7 and from any online device. There are closed groups for sensitive issues in forum communities I have cancer, I had cancer and Family, friends and carers.
Cancer Council Online Community: Interesting facts and figures
During this time last year (December 2016), there were 17,310 visits to the Cancer Council Online Community. 4,050 people either read the chats online or participated in a chat and 3,891 discussions were held.
We also encourage anyone to call Cancer Council 13 11 20 and speak to one of our experienced and understanding cancer health professionals. All calls are confidential and support is just a phone call away, regardless of where you live across the state. To speak with a cancer health professional in your own language call 13 14 50.
Katherine Lane, Nurse Manager at Cancer Council Victoria says “we receive hundreds of during the summer holidays from people who may be worried that their feelings and emotions may dampen the celebrations for others or that they may experience frustrating delays in appointments, treatments and results over this period.”
13 11 20 hours over the holiday season
- Monday 25 December: Closed
- Tuesday 26 December: Closed
- Wednesday 27 December: 10am - 6pm
- Thursday 28 December: 10am - 6pm
- Friday 29 December: 10am - 6pm
- Monday 1 January: Closed
The voicemail service will operate on the days we are closed and a cancer health professional will return the call on the next working day.
Other support services available:
Visit Cancer Council Online Community
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